Bessie

Audience emotional responses for 'Bessie' are primarily driven by its biographical drama and musical content. Sadness, Empathy, and Melancholy are highly prominent, reflecting Bessie Smith's tumultuous life, the struggles she faced with discrimination and personal relationships, and the inherent emotional depth of the blues music she performed. Inspiration is a key emotion, stemming from her remarkable talent, resilience in overcoming adversity, and her groundbreaking success as an African American woman in the early 20th-century music industry. Anger is also significant, evoked by the pervasive racial injustices and personal betrayals depicted. Joy, Happiness, and Awe contribute to the emotional landscape, particularly during her powerful musical performances and moments of triumph.